His favorite Bible verse was the 23rd Psalm. He was a past certified lay speaker for the United Methodist Church, past member of the Sons Confederate Veterans and the Odd Fellows.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Debra Kay "Debbie" Burkett Merchant; three sisters, Agnes "Ginger" Shriver and husband, Ray, of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, Mary "Polly" Wharton and Sue Ann Kesecker, both of Ranson; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Oliver "Bubby" Merchant Jr.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. today, at Jefferson Chapel with the Pastor Raymond H. Shriver officiating. Interment will be in the Pleasant View Memory Gardens.